A hugely disappointing 2024 hasn’t impacted opinion of the 49ers as one of the favorites to lift the Lombardi Trophy.
Only one NFC team has done a better job of consistently contending to get to the Super Bowl than the 49ers since Kyle Shanahan took over in 2017.
The Philadelphia Eagles have been to the Super Bowl three times in that period, winning it once, while the 49ers have two heartbreaking defeats on the biggest stage in that period.
And, despite a disappointing, injury-riddled 6-11 season in 2024, ProFootballTalk’s Mike Florio expects the 49ers to be in the Super Bowl conversation again in 2025.
In an article posted on Sunday, Florio listed the 49ers as one of 10 teams who are legitimately in their Super Bowl window in 2025.
He wrote:
In most years, roughly 10 teams are in the window, roughly 10 teams aren’t, and the remaining 12 could break either way. This year, the AFC’s true short-list contenders are the Chiefs, Bills, Ravens, Bengals, and Texans. The Broncos and Chargers could force their way into the conversation.
In the NFC, it’s the Eagles, Lions, Rams, 49ers, and Commanders. Maybe the Buccaneers. Maybe the Vikings.
It’s interesting that Florio lists the 49ers ahead of two teams who made the playoffs last season, though that opinion is likely tied to the continuity San Francisco has on offense and the high floor and high ceiling that group has when everyone is healthy with Kyle Shanahan calling the plays. There is more doubt surrounding the Vikings and Buccaneers.
Minnesota will have a new quarterback who has never played an NFL game in JJ McCarthy, who is coming off a serious injury. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay has a first-time offensive coordinator in Josh Grizzard following the departure of Liam Coen.
The 49ers’ hopes of realizing their Super Bowl potential this year will likely hinge on the health of the offensive support system around Brock Purdy and the success of the defense and special teams in improving markedly on dismal 2024 seasons, with substantial changes made to both those units.
Looking long term, the 49ers’ ability to remain in the thick of the Super Bowl conversation year-on-year will be dependent on Purdy continuing to evolve within Shanahan’s offense and the front office succeeding in refreshing the roster with strong draft classes. The pressure on forthcoming drafts will be lessened, however, if the 49ers can finally get over the hump this year and win the Super Bowl at their home stadium.